Lost car keys: what do you do now?

Are you locked out of your vehicle? Don’t worry There’s a option to get back on the road if you have lost car keys.

Car keys lost can be a major hassle, and the unfortunate reality is that it could be extremely expensive to purchase replacement keys. There’s more than one option to gain access to your car in the event that keys disappear If you’re smart about your approach you could save money. We’ve provided five ways of getting keys back that were stolen or lost as well as some helpful suggestions that will make this process as easy as is possible.

In the first place, note down the VIN number for your car. This is useful for parts dealers and dealers to locate replacement keys. For newer vehicles it will be located on a plaque that is set into the dashboard. It will also be visible through the windshield. For older vehicles check your vehicle’s Log book (V5C).

Get a brand new set of keys from an authorized dealer

This is, of course, the most expensive and time-consuming option, however it ensures you’ll receive new keys that will unlock your vehicle for the first time. You can expect to pay up to PS200 and, based on the local dealer’s has the tools and know-how waiting times can be as long as 10 , working days.

Locate a locksmith for your car

You can locate your closest locksmith for your automobile by doing a quick Google search or by visiting the Master Locksmiths Association website. Automotive locksmiths can supply key replacements for all vehicles fast, as well as updating your vehicle’s security software to prevent the keys you have already purchased from being used again in the future should they be stolen by thieves.

Additionally the automotive locksmiths are typically mobile, which means that they are able to arrive at your damaged motor to issue new keys to your driveway, as long as you provide proof of the ownership of the vehicle as well as the form of ID that you can prove.

Make a claim on your insurance policy

Certain insurance companies offer key protection in the form of a standard feature on their policies, and can help you save a significant cost for your own. Depending on the insurance company you use and the amount of coverage you purchase the offered service may vary from a basic key replacement, to a complete aftercare packagethat includes an automobile rental while waiting for your key to be fixed.

Make sure you read the fine print on your policy. If filing a claim for lost keys under your insurance could affect the discount for no claims it might be more financially to purchase replacement keys out of your own pocket in order to keep your vehicle insurance costs lower.

Find a spare key in the high street

If you’ve lost all keys to your vehicle the advice given here won’t be useful. However, if you’ve has one key in your possession and are looking for an emergency spare (like the possibility of losing it) think about going to a local key cutter. They typically can supply keys replacement in just a few hours and provide significantly lower prices as compared to franchised dealer.

Contact your breakdown assistance

Certain breakdown service providers provide an option for mobile key replacement and generally the services offered by them will be included as part of their coverage. This option is faster and less costly than visiting the dealership, and it’s effective well for those who live in rural areas, where dedicated locksmiths for mobile vehicles aren’t as widespread.